Neuropathy is another term for nerve damage, and this can be caused by a variety of conditions or medications. Some individuals find certain herbs effective in treating symptoms related to nerve damage, however, these may not be effective for everyone. Before treating nerve damage with herbs, it is important to find out the underlying cause of your condition. Consult your physician before using any herbs to determine optimal dosage and to avoid any interactions with medications you may be taking.
Step 1
Take 30 mcg of vitamin H, also called biotin, for peripheral neuropathy, states the University of Maryland Medical Center. Peripheral neuropathy is damage to the nerves in your hands and feet. Your doctor may instruct you to use a higher dosage, but do not take more of this supplement without the supervision of a doctor.
Step 2
Consume 2 to 8 g of evening primrose oil, standardized to have 8 percent GLA, an omega-6 fatty acid, suggests UMMC. Evening primrose oil has been shown to relieve symptoms of nerve pain from diabetes.
Step 3
Apply capsaicin cream to the affected areas, recommends the Mayo Clinic website. This has been shown to show some improvement in symptoms associated with peripheral neuropathy. Follow your doctor's instructions on how to use the cream. The website explains that the cream can cause a hot sensation; pain relief typically occurs once this hot sensation subsides.
Step 4
Take liquid extract of St. John's wort in a 1:1 preparation, 40 to 60 drops, twice a day, according to UMMC. This herb also comes in capsules; ask your physician what dosage is appropriate for nerve damage. The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine states that this herb has been used historically to treat nerve pain.
Tips and Warnings
- In addition to using herbs to treat your nerve damage, ask your health care provider if there are other things you can do to help relieve your symptoms, like massage or acupuncture.
- Before using any herbs for nerve damage, it is important that you see a health care provider to ascertain the cause of the nerve damage and get treatment for it. Talk to your provider about herbal treatments and whether these are appropriate for you. Prior to taking any herbs, tell your doctor about any medications or other supplements you are taking, to avoid any adverse interactions.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Vitamin H (Biotin)
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Evening Primrose Oil
- MayoClinic.com: Peripheral Neuropathy: Alternative Medicine
- University of Maryland Medical Center: St. John's Wort
- National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine: St. John's Wort
